The International Maritime Organization (IMO) wrapped up its Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 2nd Extraordinary Session in London with a surprising decision: to postpone the adoption of its proposed IMO Net-Zero Framework (NZF) for one year, until 2026.
The framework, designed to include a global fuel standard and an economic measure to stimulate investment in low- and zero-carbon fuels, aims to create a level playing field for the industry’s transition toward net-zero emissions by 2050.
The motion to delay adoption was introduced by Singapore’s delegation and brought to a vote by Saudi Arabia. In the final tally (57 delegations voted in favor of delaying, 49 opposed, and 21 abstained) an outcome that highlights the divide in the international community on the pace and structure of decarbonization policy.
While many stakeholders hoped for a faster resolution, the delay underscores both the complexity of achieving global consensus and the continued commitment among governments, ports, and industry leaders to find a unified path forward. This moment highlights how collective alignment, data transparency, and collaboration across all stakeholders can determine the pace of real progress—not just policy adoption.
Decarbonization Momentum Continues
The postponement doesn’t mark a pause in decarbonization; it reinforces how critical alignment is to success. And even without finalized global policy, the maritime sector continues to move forward with meaningful progress.
Ocean carriers, in particular, have been proactive in reducing harmful emissions for years. According to FreightWaves, the largest vessels (those responsible for about 85% of the sector’s total greenhouse gas output) are now the primary focus of decarbonization efforts. Investments in cleaner technologies have already topped $150 billion globally, emphasizing a shared determination to evolve operations, not wait for mandates.
Leaders across the maritime value chain, including the World Shipping Council, the International Association of Ports and Harbors, and Lloyd’s Register, reaffirmed that the IMO remains the right forum to develop an equitable and transparent framework for maritime decarbonization.
At the same time, political tensions have also emerged alongside the delay, as well as possible implementation of retaliatory actions. These developments highlight why global regulatory alignment remains essential to maintaining balance across the supply chain. Without it, regional friction could easily disrupt carriers, shippers, and the broader flow of global trade.
Noted in the Journal of Commerce’s recent article “IMO Punts on Pivotal Net-Zero Shipping Regulation,” the real takeaway from London is not indecision—it’s the recognition that meaningful, globally consistent standards require both ambition and coordination.
Expectations for Sustainability Action Continues to Grow
Even as the policy landscape evolves, the expectation for measurable sustainability action continues to grow.
- For shippers, the ability to understand and quantify emissions exposure is no longer optional. Accurate measurement, transparent reporting, and proactive reduction strategies are now central to brand reputation, compliance, and customer trust.
- For carriers, investment decisions depend increasingly on aggregated data and demand signals from shippers who are prioritizing greener freight solutions. Fleet strategies, fuel choices, and route optimization all hinge on visibility into future carbon pricing and regulation.
Simply put, the delay affects when the IMO net-zero framework is adopted—not if the industry needs to act.
How Greenabl Helps Supply Chain Stakeholders Prepare
At Greenabl, we turn complex policy developments into practical, measurable steps that make sense for your business today. While regulators continue to shape what the future will look like, we help shippers and carriers take action now because progress doesn’t have to wait for policy.
For shippers, that means understanding your current emissions profile and identifying where the biggest opportunities for reduction exist. Through our digital platform and consulting expertise, you gain real-time visibility into your footprint using the GLEC Framework, the industry’s leading standard for logistics emissions measurement. From there, we help you translate data into strategy—implementing operational improvements, setting achievable reduction targets, and choosing verified carbon credit projects that align with your company’s goals and values.
For carriers, our work centers on insight and collaboration. We help connect you with shippers that share a commitment to decarbonization, so that investments in low- and zero-emission vessels are backed by real demand. By bringing together both sides of the equation, we help carriers plan their fleet evolution with confidence, supported by aggregated data, clear market signals, and a growing ecosystem of partners focused on measurable sustainability outcomes.
Ultimately, Greenabl acts as the connective tissue across the supply chain. We bridge the gap between compliance and opportunity, giving every stakeholder the tools to stay credible, competitive, and ready for what’s next.
Turning Uncertainty into Advantage
This one-year delay is not a setback; it’s an opportunity for the private sector to lead. By building systems for measurement, transparency, and accountability today, companies can position themselves at the forefront of the next wave of maritime decarbonization.
As an association driven by action, Greenabl continues to closely monitor developments at the IMO and across the global maritime sector. Connect with our team to see how our platform and consulting solutions can help you measure, mitigate, and manage your path to net zero.
